Warnings and precautions to be aware of prior to taking Metadate CD include the following:
Stimulants (including Metadate CD) are often abused. Taking high doses of the drug for a long time can lead to drug dependence (see Metadate Abuse). Because the medication is so commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing it (see Metadate: A Controlled Substance). Metadate CD should be used with caution in people with a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
In people with psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder), Metadate CD can make certain symptoms worse, including thought disorders and behavior problems. The drug should not be used in people with severe depression, schizophrenia, or other psychotic disorders.
Sudden death has been reported in children, adolescents, and adults with heart problems who took normal doses of medications similar to Metadate CD. If your child has heart problems, ask your healthcare provider if Metadate CD is appropriate in your situation. Also, let your healthcare provider know if your child develops any chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting.
Metadate CD can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. In most cases, the increase is small and does not cause problems. However, there is an increased risk for people who already have high blood pressure. Your healthcare provider should monitor your blood pressure while you are taking the drug.
Metadate CD can increase the risk of seizures, especially in people who have had seizures before. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking the medication if you have a history of seizures.
Metadate CD should not be used to treat severe depression, nor should it be used to prevent or treat fatigue.
The medication can cause a temporary slowing down of growth in children. This is usually small, and children usually catch up to normal growth rates with time.
Metadate CD can cause blurred vision and other vision problems.
Metadate CD is considered a pregnancy Category C medication. This means that it may not be safe to use during pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare provider before using Metadate CD during pregnancy (see Metadate and Pregnancy).
It is not known if Metadate CD passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to start, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
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